Fish are exquisite, aquatic animals that are not only beautiful to behold, but also known to have therapeutic effects, well!

If you’re toying with the idea of investing in fish, but still mulling over your fish tank options, the very first step lies in determining the age ole’ quandary: Saltwater or Freshwater?

Selecting a freshwater tank is often the recommended choice for a beginner aquarist. Generally, freshwater tanks are

easier to maintain,

present fewer risks/hazards,

and are less expensive.

A freshwater tank can be a glass or acrylic tank of any size, and offer a wide variety of choices in plant life for freshwater aquariums. Popular freshwater fish include: cichlids (retailed at $5); betta fish (retailed at $3); gouramis fish (retailed at $2); goldfish ($3), and tetras fish ($2).

Saltwater aquariums are more expensive than freshwater tanks, and often more precarious to maintain. Despite the responsibilities associated with a saltwater tank, the natural beauty of maintaining such unique marine life is rewarding enough to offset the challenges.

Saltwater aquariums enable owners to cultivate livestock that is much more vibrant and colorful than what is found in a freshwater tank. Popular saltwater fish include clownfish (retailed at $30); butterflyfish (retailed at $75); dottybacks ($15), and blennies ($20).

Ultimately, you should weigh your aquarium options. If costs is an issue, it’s probably best that you opt for a freshwater tank first. If the cost isn’t much of an issue for you and you want a more vibrant and colorful tank, a saltwater is the way to go.

Share Your Thoughts Below

If you’re still unsure or if you have advice for the newbies trying to jump into the hobby, feel free to share it in the comments section below and perhaps share it with your friends too. Thanks.

One comment on “Infographic: Saltwater vs Freshwater Tanks”

I unexpectably adopted a Betta 2 yrs.+ ago, and have kept him in a 1 gallon bowl. He has always been active and playful. I was away from home for 41/2 months and on my return, he’s been acting sick. That was apprx. 4 months ago and I’ve been cleaning his bowl everyday. He’s been struggling, but is trying so hard. He’s eating less. Almost as though he might not be able to see. I also think that ‘fin rot’ might be involved.

I have a used 1 gallon aquarium that has a filter. I’m just not sure how to set it up properly and if that would even resolve the problem. My finances are very limited, as is transportation.